A delegation of students and faculty members from the Faculty of Science at Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) and the Faculty of Science and Technology at Beijing Normal–Hong Kong Baptist University (BNBU) visited BGI in Shenzhen, aglobal frontrunner in genomics research and development. Organized by the HKBU Liaison Office, the visit brought together participants from Hong Kong and Zhuhai for a substantive exchange in Shenzhen. Notably, this event marked the first collective student interaction between the two faculties. Serving as a dynamic "mobile classroom," it provided participants with direct exposure to the operational dynamics of a leading national future industry andenhanced their understanding of the transformative impact of life sciences on healthand society.
Visiting a National Strategic Asset: Engaging with Core Areas of Scientific Development
The visit offered an in-depth look into a priority area of China’s scientific strategy. Bio-manufacturing, identified as one of the key "Seven Future Industries" in China, represents a vital driver for economic transformation and the development of new quality productive forces. As a global leader in life sciences, BGI possesses advanced technological capabilities and extensive expertise in gene sequencing and bioinformatics.
During the tour of gene sequencing laboratories, participants observed the operation of high-throughput sequencers and interacted with research staff. These engagements helped students understand how genomic technologies are translated from basic research into clinical and industrial applications, thereby providing essential scientific support for human health.
Presentations by BGI researchers highlighted achievements in disease prevention and rare disease research, underscoring the critical role of biotechnology enterprises within the national health strategy. Such sharing further inspired among students deepened sense of responsibility toward scientific inquiry. From consumer health products to agricultural biological solutions, BGI’s integrated “research-to-industry “model demonstrated how genomic science moves from laboratory to market, profoundly influencing society and daily life.
Fostering Greater Bay Area Collaboration: Integrating Academic Exchange with Youth Development
The event served as a platform for academic integration and youth cooperation within the Greater Bay Area. Students from both campuses engaged in discussions with BGI specialists on current trends in life sciences, technology ethics, and career development. This direct interface with industry professionals helped bridge academic theory with practical innovation, offering valuable guidance for future career planning.
Through these exchanges, students expanded their scientific perspectives and gained clearer insight into potential pathways in the field. This interactive, cross-disciplinary format went beyond conventional classroom learning, allowing the younger generation to directly engage with the pulse of scientific innovation and recognize the close connections between academic research and societal needs. The initiative thus contributes fresh momentum to the cultivation of talent for the life sciences sector in the Greater Bay Area.
Both faculties expressed that this visit has laid the foundation for sustained exchange and collaboration. Moving forward, they intend to leverage this partnership to develop joint research projects, academic seminars, and internship programs. These efforts are expected to support the Greater Bay Area’s development into an international innovation and technology hub, while fostering a new generation of scientific talent equipped with global vision, cutting-edge expertise, and a strong sense of social responsibility.
From BULO
